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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Sofia Rebelo, Inês Vilares, João Moura
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly integrates sustainable materials to create a multifunctional community hub that fosters collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for optimized structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and daylighting throughout.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support landscape irrigation and reduce water consumption.
05
Design prioritizes flexible spaces that adapt to community needs and foster collaborative activities.

The project under analysis is a contemporary architectural design that embodies a synthesis of functionality and aesthetics. Situated in a carefully chosen location, it seeks to respond to the environmental and cultural context while adhering to modern architectural principles. The design effectively balances practicality with expressive forms, ensuring that it meets the needs of its users while contributing positively to its surroundings.

With an emphasis on sustainability, the project utilizes a range of materials that not only enhance its visual appeal but also improve durability and energy efficiency. The structural elements are designed with precision, integrating advanced engineering solutions to support its unique form. Furthermore, the site planning reflects an intentional approach to landscape integration, promoting both accessibility and engagement with the natural environment.

Innovative Facade and Material Selection
One of the defining aspects of this project is its inventive facade treatment. The use of [specific materials] creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the building's visual interest while maintaining functionality. The facade acts as a filter between the interior and exterior, regulating natural light and offering varying degrees of transparency. This design choice not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also addresses thermal comfort, capitalizing on passive design strategies.

Additionally, the project incorporates local materials that resonate with the cultural identity of the area. This thoughtful selection supports regional economies and promotes sustainability by minimizing transportation-related impacts. The architecture reflects local craftsmanship while showcasing modern techniques, ensuring a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.

Functional Spaces and Community Focus
The spatial organization prioritizes user experience through flexible layouts that adapt to various functions. Open-plan areas encourage collaborative activities, while designated private spaces ensure comfort and privacy. The design also incorporates outdoor spaces that foster community interaction, providing places for leisure and social gatherings.

The project serves multifaceted purposes, catering to both individual and community needs. By integrating multifunctional spaces and amenities, it enhances the usability of the building while promoting a sense of community. The approach emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that the design accommodates diverse user groups and activities.

This architectural endeavor represents a forward-thinking approach to design, where sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic coherence intersect. The unique aspects of the facade, material selections, and spatial configurations highlight a commitment to innovation while respecting the surrounding context.

For those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this project, please review the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that define this remarkable work of architecture.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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